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Delhi HC Judge initiates contempt proceedings against Kejriwal (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma of the Delhi High Court on Thursday said contempt proceedings would be initiated against AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and several senior party leaders over alleged defamatory and contemptuous social media posts linked to the excise policy case.
The observations came during court proceedings connected to challenges and applications being heard in the Delhi excise policy matter involving multiple accused, including former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
During the hearing, Justice Sharma remarked that highly objectionable material had been circulated against both her and the institution of the court.
“Extremely vilifying, extremely contemptuous, and defamatory material is being posted,” the judge observed in court while referring to the online campaign allegedly directed at the bench.
Justice Sharma further said that criticism had crossed acceptable legal limits and appeared to be an attempt to put pressure on judicial proceedings. “I won’t be scared of a political campaign against me,” the judge stated, adding that contempt law exists to safeguard the dignity of the judiciary and public confidence in the institution.
The bench observed that courts cannot function under fear or political influence. Justice Sharma said judges must choose “courage over convenience” when the institution itself comes under attack.
The court also noted that individuals involved appeared to believe their remarks could be justified as public opinion, but added that such conduct could still amount to contempt if it undermines the judicial process.
The controversy follows earlier applications filed by some accused in the excise policy case seeking Justice Sharma’s recusal on allegations of bias. The judge had rejected those pleas, stating that unsupported apprehensions could not become grounds for a judge to step aside from hearing a case.
Following that order, several accused reportedly avoided appearing before the court while public commentary on the matter intensified. The Delhi High Court is expected to hear further submissions before passing additional directions in the contempt proceedings.
